Jesus  Freaks: Vinyl to Digital artwork

Jesus Freaks: Vinyl to Digital

38 episodes - English - Latest episode: over 1 year ago -

Jesus Freaks: Vinyl to Digital is a weekly cast dedicated to current and past Contemporary Christian Music and the artists behind the music. Each week we'll interview a different artist about their career, faith and the stories behind the songs. Permission obtained for all music used.

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Episodes

Steven Curtis Chapman (Part 2)

October 28, 2022 15:00 - 45 minutes - 31.1 MB

In part 2 of this 2-part season finale, Steven Curtis Chapman talks about the struggles he faced as he began to rise in popularity within the CCM industry. Plus, he discusses his and wife, Mary Beth's passion for adoption and all they are doing to help children in need find loving homes. Of course, we also take a look back at a few favorite hits, as well as preview a couple of tracks off his new project, "Still"! *Music in this Episode: "The Change" - Sparrow Records "Got 2 B Tru" - Sparro...

Steven Curtis Chapman (Part 1)

October 21, 2022 21:00 - 44 minutes - 30.3 MB

He is a legend in the CCM world. His lyrics and music have touched millions. He has won multiple Grammy's Dove awards, GMA's and list keeps growing. But this icon of the industry is a self-proclaimed "Kentucky boy" at heart and he sits sits down with us in part one of this 2 part season finale to talk about his life and incredible career. He is the one and only Steve Curtis Chapman. *Music in this episode: "Lord of the Dance" - Sparrow Records "No Better Place" - Sparrow Records "My Turn N...

Steve Shannon & Mark Ambrose (Idle Cure)

October 14, 2022 17:00 - 57 minutes - 39.5 MB

Idle Cure was unapologetic in their Christian Rock message during the late 80's and into the 90's. the sound was unmistakable and many had them labeled as the next Petra. But, despite their popularity, they never had a formal U.S. tour, nor did they ever quit their day jobs. In this episode, co-founders of the group, Steve Shannon (Lead Vocals) and Mark Ambrose (Keys, Guitar), talk about their faith and their journey, plus what they are up to these days! *Music in this episode: "Frontline"...

Rex Carrol (WhiteCross) Pt. 2

October 08, 2022 18:00 - 46 minutes - 31.7 MB

In Part 2 of our interview with Rex Carrol, lead guitarist for Whitecross, Rex gives insight into things God was working on inside him during the prime era of the band. He also gets very honest about what drove he and lead vocalist Scott Wenzel apart. Plus, we preview two new tracks from Whitecross' new project, "Fear No Evil"! Support this show! Music in this episode: "Take it to the Limit" - Jubilee Communications "The Hammer and the Nail" - Jubilee Communications "Shakedown" - Jubilee...

Rex Carrol (Whitecross)

September 30, 2022 20:00 - 42 minutes - 29.3 MB

He is one of the most iconic and prolific guitarists known to Christian metal music! Rex Carrol joins us as our guest in part one of this two-part episode about his faith, life and career. In this episode, he discusses with us his early life, how he knew this was his calling and how Whitecross, as we know it, came to be! Support this show! Music in the Episode: "Flashpoint" - 214 Records "Attention Please" - Jubilee Communications "Over the Top" - 214 Records "No Way I'm Going Down" - Pur...

Rex Carrol (Whitecross) Pt. 1

September 30, 2022 20:00 - 42 minutes - 29.3 MB

He is one of the most iconic and prolific guitarists known to Christian metal music! Rex Carrol joins us as our guest in part one of this two-part episode about his faith, life and career. In this episode, he discusses with us his early life, how he knew this was his calling and how Whitecross, as we know it, came to be! Support this show! Music in the Episode: "Flashpoint" - 214 Records "Attention Please" - Jubilee Communications "Over the Top" - 214 Records "No Way I'm Going Down" - Pur...

Lisa Bevill (CCM Artist)

September 09, 2022 21:00 - 52 minutes - 36.4 MB

Lisa Bevill was a powerhouse Christina artist in the 90's and early 2000's. Her poppy, and also sensitive, touch made her music unique and endearing. In addition, she was the only female artists involved int he "True Love Waits" movement that was very popular at the time, but coming under some criticism now. In this episode, we talk to Lisa about her life and the stories behind her music career. Plus, she answers some of those criticism about "Tru Love Waits" and talks about her days servin...

Mark & Brynn Gersmehl, Part 2 (Whiteheart/Rachel Rachel)

October 26, 2021 00:00 - 59 minutes - 41 MB

In this mid-season finale, we conclude our conversation with Mark and Brynn Gersmehl. They talk about the break-ups of their respective bands and the new music they are up to creating now! Plus, we get to preview a previously unreleased track from Mark and Brynn's collective effort called, "Soulbreather"! To support this podcast please click HERE! Music in this Episode: "Independence Day" - Whiteheart (Star Song) "Only Heaven Knows" - Rachel Rachel (Dayspring) "Heaven of My Heart" - White...

Mark & Brynn Gersmehl, Pt. 1(Whiteheart /Rachel Rachel)

October 04, 2021 04:00 - 1 hour - 41.5 MB

Mark Gersmehl was one of the founding members of Whiteheart, as well as one of only two members to with the band from start to finish. Brynn Gersmehl served as the keyboardist for the all-female Christian rock group, Rachel Rachel. While on tour together, they found love. In this episode, they talk about their difficult roads to the faith, their respective careers and their love story. To Support this podcast, please click HERE! Music In this episode: "You'll never Know" - Rachel Rachel (D...

Lary Dean (Trytan)

September 27, 2021 11:00 - 1 hour - 48.7 MB

Lary Dean is the front man for the progressive metal band, Trytan. Although he considered himself a believer from a young age, it took the tragic death of a friend to get him to commit his life to Christ. Now, as both a pastor and musician, Lary is reaching the lost like never before. In this episode, we talk to Lary about his faith, career and his new musical projects upcoming, including a preview of an unreleased track from his new project called, "Eminate". For more information on Lary a...

Special Rich Mullins Tribute

September 20, 2021 04:00 - 1 hour - 42 MB

On September 19, 1997, the world said goodbye to one of the most prolific and, sometimes controversial, Christian artists of his day, Rich Mullins. Mullins' soared to CCM stardom with hits like "Awesome God" and "Sometimes by Step", but his deep convictions and poetic mind prevented him from relishing in his fame. Like Keith Green before him, he walked to the beat of his own drum and did the music he wanted. Tragically, his life was cut short in an automobile accident. In this episode, we ta...

Russ Lee (Newsong)

September 13, 2021 04:00 - 1 hour - 43.8 MB

Russ Lee wasn't raised in a Christian home. In fact, by the time he was 17, he was already dealing drugs. But he knew there was something more and he was missing out. One night, with his drugs still in the trunk of his car, he attended a church service that changed his life. That began a path that would take him to fronting one of the most iconic CCM groups, Newsong, as well as embarking on his own solo career. This week, we talk to Russ about his life, faith and the choices he made along th...

Jamie Rowe (Guardian)

September 03, 2021 12:00 - 55 minutes - 37.8 MB

His raspy blues voice defined Guardian's distinct sound for over a decade. In our season premier, Jamie Rowe sat down with us to talk about his faith, career and what he's up to these days. In this episode, we learn the stories behind some of Guardian's most popular songs and how John Elefante and Steve Taylor helped to make them such a huge success in the Chritian metal world. Music in this Episode: "Eye of the Storm" - Tempest (Star Song) "Fire and Love" - Guardian (Word) "I Found Love"-...

Randy Stonehill (Pt. 2)

April 23, 2021 04:00 - 1 hour - 51.9 MB

In this final episode of season 2, our interview with the great Randy Stonehill picks up right where it left off, as Randy tells what it was like when he got the news of Keith Green's death. As Stonehill takes us through his solo career, we talk about his unique songwriting style, as well as preview some tracks from his brand new project, Lost Art of Listening! Plus, did you know Randy was in a really bad horror movie called, Beware the Blob! in 1972? Don't believe us? Click HERE and forward...

Randy Stonehill (Pt. 1)

April 16, 2021 04:00 - 1 hour - 63.3 MB

Known as one of the pioneers of Contemporary Christian Music, Randy Stonehill paved the way for future artists and set the standard for writing solid Christian Music. But his journey was not an easy one and it was his friendship with the late Larry Norman that ultimately led him to Christ. In this episode, Randy talks about his incredible journey to find Christ, as well as his complex relationship with friend and songwriting partner, the late Keith Green. Join us for part 1 of this 2-part se...

Phil Joel (Newsboys)

April 09, 2021 04:00 - 50 minutes - 34.4 MB

As the bassist for the powerhouse CCM group, The Newsboys, and also as a solo artist, Phil Joel has enjoyed a successful career in the CCM industry. But it hasn't come without its trial or difficult choices. In this episode, Joel talks about how ha cane to join the Newsboys, the hard decision to leave and how God has used his solo career to make a difference beyond his music. Plus, we'll take a look back a some Newsboys favorites that Joel was a part of, as well as preview some tracks from h...

Paul Roraback (Grammatrain)

April 02, 2021 04:00 - 57 minutes - 39.3 MB

Paul Roraback was the drummer for the Christian grunge band, Grammatrain, back in the early 90's. In this episode, he talks about his faith and how his love of music served as the catalyst to forming the band. However, after only putting out two albums, they stopped playing together when the lead vocalist recanted his faith. The experience, as well as a similar one in a different band of Paul's, left him reeling. Now, Roraback has a new band, PJ Bostic, and he is proud that his music has mea...

Kim Boyce

March 26, 2021 04:00 - 41 minutes - 28.5 MB

Kim Boyce came in to Christian Contemporary Music in an era when artists like Tiffany and Debbie Gibson were all the rage. She quickly became a Christian Pop icon with two number one singles off her debut album! In this episode, she talks about her career, balancing her music and family, and the Strongs tests of faith she endured after her music career had concluded. This episode is gonna be rad! To support this podcast, click HERE! Music used in this episode: "Love Resurrection" - Kim Bo...

Danny Mariano (Rage of Angels)

March 19, 2021 04:00 - 47 minutes - 33 MB

Danny Mariano founded, and sang lead vocals for, what could have been one of the greatest Christian Metal bands ever. Instead, the band quickly folded shortly after their one and only album was released. Since then, that project has reached cult-like status in the Christian metal world, and has been a source of rumors and conjecture as to why the band broke up. In this episode, Mariano opens up about what truly happened to Rage of Angels and what happened to his attempts to reform the band. ...

John Schlitt (Petra)

March 12, 2021 05:00 - 55 minutes - 38.1 MB

John Schlitt was the lead vocalist for Head East in the 70's and early 80's. But his Rock & Roll lifestyle soon landed him a swamp of drugs and alcohol he couldn't seem to escape. Then, on the cusp of deciding to take his own life, a visit to his wife's pastor changed John's life forever. Soon thereafter, he would give up his vices and would go on to front one of the most iconic Christian Rock groups to date, Petra. In this episode, John takes us on the journey that got him to where he is, p...

Rick Florian (White Heart)

March 05, 2021 05:00 - 45 minutes - 31.6 MB

Rick Florian was the lead vocalist for one of the hottest Christian Rock Groups from the late 80's and 90's, White Heart. Starting as a roadie and then landing the gig as lead singer, Florian's power vocals took the band to new heights. This week, we talk to Rick about his days with the band, how he got there and what he's doing now. Plus, he answers the question every White heart fan wants to know - Could White Heart take the stage again? If you'd like to support this program please visit ...

John Elefante (Mastedon/ Formerly of Kansas)

February 26, 2021 05:00 - 53 minutes - 36.9 MB

He is one of the most revered CCM musicians and producers in the industry.  John Elefante has gone from lead singer of the legendary rock group, Kansas, to a super producer of mega-artists like Petra, Guardian and Carman, as well as a successful solo artist in his own right. This week, he sits down with us to talk about his life, faith and incredible career! Plus, at the end of this episode, we pay a special tribute to legendary CCM artist, Carman, who passed away just this week. Music in t...

John Elefante (Kansas)

February 26, 2021 05:00 - 53 minutes - 36.9 MB

He is one of the most revered CCM musicians and producers in the industry.  John Elefante has gone from lead singer of the legendary rock group, Kansas, to a super producer of mega-artists like Petra, Guardian and Carman, as well as a successful solo artist in his own right. This week, he sits down with us to talk about his life, faith and incredible career! Plus, at the end of this episode, we pay a special tribute to legendary CCM artist, Carman, who passed away just this week. Music in t...

Bryan Duncan

February 19, 2021 05:00 - 42 minutes - 29 MB

Bryan Duncan has lead an incredible career, first as a member of Sweet Comfort band, and then as a successful solo artist in the 80's and 90's. This week, we have a very candid conversation with Bryan about his life, music and struggles. Plus, we'll look back at some his unique music that always seemed to have his own unique hook, and he plays some unreleased future hits you'll only hear on Jesus Freaks: Vinyl to Digital! If you would like to supper this program, please visit www.patreon.co...

Eddie DeGarmo (DeGarmo & Key)

February 12, 2021 05:00 - 50 minutes - 35.1 MB

As a member of the power duo, DeGarmo & Key, Eddie Degarmo helped to set the standard for CCM artists of his day. This week, he sits down with us to discuss his life, how he and Dana Key came to know Christ, as well as some stories behind some of their songs and their storied career. he also tell us about his new book, and how he dealt with the death of his musical partner and best friend. To contribute to this program click HERE! This program is licensed through BMI. All  music used with ...

Michael Sweet (Stryper)

February 05, 2021 05:00 - 41 minutes - 28.6 MB

As frontman for Stryper and a solo artist, Michael Sweet is an icon of Christian metal. Having paved the way for other bands behind them, Stryper took a lot of the heat from both the Church and secular world, as they continued to dominate charts during the 80's and 90's. Now, in a new era, the band finds itself still producing music, but without original bassist, Tim Gaines. On this episode, Sweet talks candidly about those years when the band struggled with their faith, why Tim had to leave...

Daniel McCabe (Daniel Band)

October 23, 2020 14:00 - 34 minutes - 23.6 MB

In this season finale episode, we talk to Dan McCabe, front man for the 80's Christian Rock group, Daniel Band. Dan talks about his childhood growing up in a church that didn't believe in musical instruments, how Daniel Band came to be, as well as what he's doing now and if there is a plan to get Daniel Band back together. Plus, we'll highlight some popular Daniel Band hits along the way and we'll talk about what's ahead in season 2!  To check out Danile's church, where he is currently the ...

Jennifer York (Rachel Rachel)

October 16, 2020 04:00 - 33 minutes - 22.8 MB

Jennifer York founded the all-female Christian Rock band, Rachel Rachel in the early 1990's. Together, they broke glass ceilings for women in the industry during their short existence, despite only releasing two albums. In this episode, Jennifer talks about what her vision for the group and what it was like to be an all-female group in, largely, an industry run by men. Plus, she talks about her desire to reunite with her fellow bandmates! Rachel Rachel Music in this Episode: "You Oughta Kn...

Scott Allen (Mylon & Broken Heart)

October 09, 2020 04:00 - 41 minutes - 28.4 MB

Scott Allen was the rhythm guitarist for one of Christian Music biggest bands, Mylon & Broken Heart for many years. In this episode, Scott talks about his life, career, time with the band and what led to the unexpected breakup. Plus we'll take a listen to some more MB&H hits. Quick Trivia: Can you name the only song Scott Allen sang lead vocals for during his time with MB&H? You'll find out in this episode! MB&H Music in this Episode: "Big World" - Star Song "Love God, Hate Sin" - Myrrh Rec...

David Payton (Mylon & Broken Heart)

October 02, 2020 04:00 - 53 minutes - 37 MB

David Payton played and sang for several Christian bands throughout his career, but the stint he is most well-known for was his time as lead guitarist for one of the biggest bands of the 80's and early 90's, Mylon & Broken Heart. On this week's episode, David talks about his life, career and why his time with Broken Heart was so short-lived, despite the massive success they achieved while he was with the band. It is a compelling story of how God always knows what's best for us, even when we ...

Russ Taff (Part 2)

September 25, 2020 04:00 - 39 minutes - 27.5 MB

In this episode, we continue our very real conversation with Russ Taff about how his life spiraled out of control due to his alcoholism, but also how God brought him back to a place of redemption. Plus, we'll talk about Russ and wife, Tori's, upcoming Bell Buckle Weekend taking place at their home this November! Russ Taff music used in this episode: "Walk Between the Lines" - Myrrh Records "Silent Love" - Myrrh Records "Down in the Lowlands" - Myrrh Records "Trumpet of Jesus" - Myrrh Records...

Russ Taff (Part 1)

September 18, 2020 04:00 - 39 minutes - 26.9 MB

Russ Taff is a Christian Music legend. He has won Grammy's and Dove Awards, among countless others. He sold millions of records. But, unbeknownst to most people, Russ was facing his own battle of alcoholism for many years. Over the next two episodes, Russ tells us his incredible story of how he went from self-loathing to accepting the love of the Father and allowed his to restore what had been lost. Russ' Music used in this episode: "Father On" - Myrrh Records "Praise the Lord" - Myrrh Recor...

Glenn Kaiser (Rez Band) Part 2

September 11, 2020 04:00 - 33 minutes - 23.1 MB

This week, we continue our discussion with Christian Rock legend, Glenn Kaiser, as he shares more from his testimony and what he thinks we can be doing better, as the Church. Plus, we'll thrown in a few more samples of Rez hits as well! If you'd like to catch up with what Glenn is doing, visit www.glennkaiser.com! To Support This Show, Please Visit our Patreon Page! Check our our website HERE! Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched!  Start for FREE Support the show

Glenn Kaiser (Rez Band): Part 1

September 04, 2020 04:00 - 40 minutes - 27.7 MB

Glenn Kaiser, along with his wife, Wendi, headed up one of the most influential and foundational Christian Rock Bands for almost 30 years. Resurrection Band quickly became the bar against what all other Christian rock bans were measured. However, unlike some artists, it was never about the music or the fame. To them, it was all about the ministry of the Gospel of Christ. The week, we get into the mind of Glenn as he talks about the music of REZ and what it meant, as well as his own testimony...

Jimi Ray (Age of Faith)

August 28, 2020 04:00 - 47 minutes - 32.6 MB

Age of Faith burst on to the CCM scene in the late 80's and quickly began to make a name for themselves, even bumping DC Talk off the #1 slot on the chart (if only for a couple weeks) at one time. But, as quickly as they hit stardom, the band faded into obscurity within a few years. The rollercoaster of the industry, coupled with an injury, led lead man, Jimi Ray, into a long battle with opioids that nearly cost him everything, including his marriage. Now a counselor for addicts himself, Jim...

Mike Stand (Altar Boys)

August 21, 2020 04:00 - 37 minutes - 25.7 MB

The Altar Boys were pioneers in the CCM Punk Rock world. When they came on the scene in 1981, their music was like nothing people had heard. In this episode, lead singer, Mike Stand, reflects back on his journey with the Altar Boys and also plays some of his hits from the day. We'll also take a look at some cuts from their 2018 release, No Substitute, which was almost 20 years in the making! If you want to catch up with the group, you can also visit www.altarboys.net! To Support This Show, ...

Michael O'Brien (Newsong)

August 13, 2020 04:00 - 30 minutes - 21 MB

Before Michael O'Brien took the job to become lead singer for the CCM iconic group, Newsong, he was a songwriter and back up musician for several artists. Now, he is a solo artist, with a brand new album and a powerful story of God's grace in his life. Join us as we talk with Michael about his life, career, struggles and how God has brought him through all of it, every step of the way. Plus, Michael will play some cuts from his new project, Crown Him! It is not to be missed! For more informa...

Dale Thompson (Bride)

July 31, 2020 23:00 - 38 minutes - 26.6 MB

Dale Thompson, most widely known for being the frontman of the Christian metal group, Bride, is our guest in this premier episode. From his home in New Zealand, we have a very real conversation with Dale about his music, his thoughts on the Christian Music industry and his very controversial theology. You've never heard CCM artists interviewed like you will on this show! Don't forget to sing up for our newsletter at Jesusfreakspodcast.com and join our Facebook Group! To Support This Show, P...